Real Estate Post Licensing: Explained

Real estate post-licensing is an important part of growing your career. In this guide, we’ll outline who needs to complete it, the states that require it, and how it differs from continuing education. 

Whether you’re newly licensed or eyeing a broker role, you’ll find the information you need to succeed.

What are Post Licensing Courses?

Real estate post-licensing is a state-mandated education requirement that new real estate licensees must complete shortly after getting their initial license. 

Post-licensing typically takes place within the first renewal period, generally within the first year or two of licensure, depending on the state. 

It’s designed to expand on the fundamentals taught in pre-licensing courses, helping new agents develop practical skills and knowledge for their real estate careers.

When Does It Happen in the Licensing Process?

Post-licensing occurs after you pass the initial licensing exam and receive your license. Unlike pre-licensing, which you only complete once, post-licensing is required only within your first renewal period, unless otherwise mandated by state regulations.

What Do You Do to Satisfy It?

To fulfill the post-licensing requirement, you must complete a set number of educational hours, usually by taking specific courses approved by your state’s real estate board. Once you’ve completed these courses, you’ll need to submit proof to maintain an active license.

Do You Only Need to Complete Post Licensing Courses Once?

Yes, most states require post-licensing only once for new licensees. After that, you’ll transition to standard continuing education requirements for subsequent renewals.

Real Estate Post Licensing Requirements by State

Each state that mandates post-licensing education has different hour requirements. 

These courses provide additional knowledge and practical skills essential for new licensees. Below is a list of states that require post-licensing hours:

• Alabama: 30 hours
• Arkansas: 18 hours
• Florida: 45 hours
• Georgia: 27 hours
• Illinois: 40 hours
• Kentucky: 48 hours
• Louisiana: 45 hours
• Mississippi: 30 hours
• Nevada: 30 hours
• New Mexico: 30 hours
• North Carolina: 90 hours
• Ohio: 20 hours
• Pennsylvania:14 hours
• Virginia: 30 hours
• Washington: 90 hours

To get started with your state’s post-licensing requirements, join one of our partnered real estate post-licensing courses.

Difference Between Post Licensing and CE 

While both post-licensing and continuing education (CE) are mandatory, they serve different purposes in a real estate professional’s career. 

Post-licensing is required immediately after getting licensed and focuses on helping new agents build practical knowledge and skills for their business. 

Continuing education is an ongoing requirement meant to keep agents up-to-date with industry changes, regulations, and best practices over their entire career. 

Post-licensing courses may cover fundamental topics like contract writing, property management, and real estate law, while CE courses often delve into current trends and legal updates.

What Do Post Licensing Courses Cover?

This section provides an overview of specific topics covered in post-licensing courses for each state.

Alabama Post Licensing

• Working with buyers 
• Writing a purchase agreement 
• Avoiding liabilities 
• From contract to close 
• Technology in real estate 
• Business plan and prospecting 

Arkansas Post Licensing

• Agency relations 
• Risk management 
• Avoid closing errors 
• Informed consent 
• Ethical dilemmas and agency 

Florida Post Licensing

• Real estate law
• Ethics and business practices
• Property management
• Finance
• Sales and marketing
• Specialty areas

Georgia Post Licensing

• Risk mitigation 
• Negotiation skills 
• Mortgage process 
• Ethical principle and practice 
• Fair housing
• Disclosures 

Illinois Post Licensing

• Broker principles
• Risk management 
• Transactional issues

Kentucky Post Licensing

• Commissions 
• Contracts
• Finance
• Advertising
• Fair housing and disclosures
• Technology and data security
• Risk management

Louisiana Post Licensing

• Fair Housing 
• Amendments and addenda 
• Finance
• Conditions, covenants, and restrictions 
• Technology 
• Marketing

Mississippi Post Licensing

• Antitrust
• Property disclosure 
• Licensee competency
• Earnest money
• Pricing strategies

Nevada Post Licensing

• Agency relationships
• Escrow 
• Real estate law
• Ethics
• Property management

New Mexico Post Licensing

• Working with clients
• Prospecting
• Creating a database
• Business planning
• Closing a transaction

North Carolina Post Licensing

• Broker relationships
• Agent duties 
• Contracts and closing 
• Real estate law and legal concepts

Ohio Post Licensing

• Core real estate principles
• Advertising regulations
• Real estate cycles 
• Foreclosure and short sales 
• Broker responsibility 

Pennsylvania Post Licensing

• Environmental issues
• ADA compliance
• Manufactured housing
• Advertising
• Protecting clients property

Virginia Post Licensing

• Current industry trends 
• Ethics and standards of conduct
• Contract writing 
• Real estate law and regulations 
• Contracts
• Risk management

Washington Post License

• Real estate law and practice
• Issues in residential real estate
• RESPA compliance
• Principle-centered real estate

What If You Don’t Complete Your Post Licensing Requirement?

Failing to complete your post-licensing education within the specified timeframe may result in license suspension, and you may need to reapply or pay late fees to reinstate it. 

If you did not complete your post-licensing courses by the deadline, it’s essential to take action promptly to avoid penalties or license suspension. Here’s what you can do:

1. Contact Your State’s Real Estate Commission: Immediately reach out to your state’s real estate commission to understand the specific repercussions of missing the deadline. Some states may offer grace periods or late submission options.
2. Check for Extension or Reinstatement Options: Many states have provisions for extensions or reinstatement if you miss the post-licensing deadline. This often involves paying a late fee and completing the coursework within a specified timeframe.
3. Enroll in Approved Post-Licensing Courses ASAP: If there’s an option to make up the missed education, enroll in approved courses as soon as possible. Some states require proof of enrollment to process extensions or reinstatements.
4. Prepare for Additional Fees or Penalties: Missing the deadline may involve extra costs. Be prepared for potential late fees or reinstatement fees, as these vary by state.
5. Avoid Repeat Delays: If an extension is granted, prioritize finishing your courses to prevent future compliance issues, which could lead to license suspension or even revocation in some cases.

Always check the specific guidelines for your state, as requirements and penalties for missing post-licensing deadlines vary widely.

Do You Need Post Licensing Courses to Become a Broker?

Whether or not you need post-licensing courses to become a broker depends on the state in which you’re licensed. 

Some states mandate post-licensing education specifically for brokers, while others do not require additional post-licensing but instead require continuing education. 

It's essential to consult your state's real estate commission or licensing authority for the most current and specific requirements, as regulations can change.

How Much Does Post Licensing Cost?

The cost of post-licensing varies by state and provider, but generally, you can expect the following expenses:

• Course fees: $100-$300
• Application or processing fees: $25-$75
• Other state-specific fees (if applicable): $50-$100

Total: $175-$475 (approximate)

Final Thoughts on Post-Licensing in Real Estate

Completing your post-licensing education is crucial to maintaining your license and building your real estate career. By meeting these requirements early, you’ll stay compliant and gain essential skills. 

We partnered with Kaplan to provide post-licensing courses to all aspiring agents. Best of all, joining through our website gets you a discount.